I have the same problem. I would say just send a message to someone who seems interesting. If they reply then yay, if not then don't let it bug ya much. Just move on to the next. Feel free to hit me up if you would like. (^.^) I like meeting new people.

Striking up a conversation with people is possibly the easiest way to make friend ever. Most people here are anime fans, so you already have a great conversation starter. Or, y'know, just be active on the forums or groups, that probably works, too. Or, you could just randomly add people as buddies and just be friendly.
I don't understand why people make making friends such a difficult chore.

I don't send out any friend requests due to my inability to cope with rejection.

I also don't talk unless spoken to, I just say hello when added.
Due to my inability to carry a good conversation online.
Don't get me wrong, I can carry a conversation, just not by posting on someones wall and stuff.
I just don't really feel it and forget and leave the conversation altogether.